2014-2015 BSN Student Handbook

RN-BSN
PROGRAM
Student Handbook
2014-2015
The RN-BSN program at Pensacola State College is a new applicant pursuing initial accreditation
by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530,
Washington, DC 20036 Phone: (202) 463-6930, Fax: (202) 785-8320, http://www.aacn.nche.edu/ccneaccreditation. New applicant status is neither a status of accreditation nor a guarantee
that accreditation will be granted.
The RN-BSN program is also a candidate for accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for
Education in Nursing (ACEN). 3343 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA 30326.
Phone: (404) 975-5000, Fax: (404) 975-5020, www.acenursing.org
Pensacola State College is an EA/EO Institution
Pensacola State College does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, ethnicity,
national origin, color, gender age, religion, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or genetic
information in its educational programs, activities or employment. For inquiries regarding
nondiscrimination policies, contact the Associate Vice President of Institutional Diversity/sex,
at (850) 484-1759, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola, Florida 32504.
Table of Contents
Welcome ........................................................................................................................................ 1
RN-BSN Program Goals ................................................................................................................ 1
Faculty and Staff ............................................................................................................................ 1
Mission ........................................................................................................................................... 2
Nursing Philosophy ........................................................................................................................ 2
Philosophy of the RN to BSN Program .......................................................................................... 3
Student Success ............................................................................................................................ 3
Campus Support Services ............................................................................................................ 4
Student Participation in Governance ............................................................................................ 4
Student Job Description ................................................................................................................ 4
Student Files ................................................................................................................................. 5
General Policies and Information ................................................................................................. 5
Legal Limitations of Licensure/Criminal History Record Checks ........................................... 5
Criminal Background Check & Drug Screening ...................................................................... 6
Progression Requirements ...................................................................................................... 6
Student Progression ............................................................................................................... 6
Maximum Attempts for a Course............................................................................................. 7
Withdrawal Policy .................................................................................................................... 7
Leave of Absence ................................................................................................................... 7
Maximum Time Frame for Program Completion ..................................................................... 8
Incomplete Grades .................................................................................................................. 8
Academic Integrity ................................................................................................................... 8
Issues with the RN License ..................................................................................................... 8
Distance Learning Attendance ................................................................................................ 8
Injury during Practicum Experiences ...................................................................................... 9
Health Clinic ............................................................................................................................ 9
Insurance................................................................................................................................. 9
CPR Certification….….. ........................................................................................................ 10
Physical Requirements ......................................................................................................... 10
Financial Aid Assistance ....................................................................................................... 11
Communication Channels ..................................................................................................... 11
Office Visits by Appointment ........................................................................................... 11
Pirate E-mail ................................................................................................................... 12
Course E-mail ................................................................................................................. 12
Evaluation of BSN Level Courses ......................................................................................... 12
Theory and Practicum..................................................................................................... 12
Rounding of Grades........................................................................................................ 12
Critical Incident ............................................................................................................... 12
Videotaping of Practicum ................................................................................................ 13
Orientation for Clinical Laboratory Experiences .................................................................... 13
Professional Appearance and Uniform Guidelines for Practicum Courses .......................... 13
Confidentiality ........................................................................................................................ 14
Behavior during Practicum Experiences ............................................................................... 15
Student Grievance Procedure ............................................................................................... 15
Graduation Procedures ......................................................................................................... 15
Adherence Agreement - Department of Nursing copy ................................................................ 16
Adherence Agreement - Students copy....................................................................................... 17
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WELCOME
Welcome to Pensacola State College’s RN-BSN program. Your instructors are a major resource
and will arrange many learning opportunities for you. Success, however, will depend largely upon
how much you utilize these learning opportunities. You cannot begin too soon in establishing the
habit of self-directed study in nursing education.
Pensacola State College (PSC) RN-BSN Program reserves the right to change, without notice, any
statement in this handbook concerning, but not limited to, rules, policies, fees, curricula, and
courses. Such changes shall be effective whenever determined by the faculty, administration, or
governing bodies; they may govern both current and past cohorts. Official notification of changes
will be announced by the appropriate department offices and posted to the website. It is the
student’s responsibility to be knowledgeable and adhere to applicable program as well as
Pensacola State College policies and regulations.
Pensacola State College RN to BSN program allows the students who has completed an associate
degree in nursing or nursing diploma and holds a valid Registered Nursing license to continue his
or her studies in a baccalaureate program.
RN to BSN PROGRAM GOALS
BSN Learning Outcomes (BSNLOs)
In the transition from academics to professional practice, the student earning the BSN degree
will be prepared to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Integrate professional behaviors.
Apply methods of research and scholarship.
Apply legal, ethical and cultural sensitivity practices.
Demonstrate methods of health maintenance and enhancement.
Apply organizational strategies.
FACULTY AND STAFF
Our faculty and staff welcome you to the program and wish you success in your endeavors.
Dusti Sluder, DNP, RN
Director of Nursing
Faculty/Staff
Telephone
E-Mail Address
Office
Bailey, Buffi, MSN, RN
484-2203
[email protected]
3152
Johnson, Zina, Administrative Assistant
484-2254
[email protected]
3156
Kelley, Loraine, MSN, BSHA/HIS, RN
484-2205
[email protected]
3147
Mathews, Nancy, MSN, RN
484-2257
[email protected]
3148
Mixon, Johnnie, MSN, M.Ed, RN-BC
484-2239
[email protected]
3169
Retzloff, Merilee, MSN, RN
484-2206
[email protected]
3150
Schwarting, Dawn, MSN, RN, CNS-BC
484-2248
[email protected]
3145
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Sluder, Dusti, DNP, RN
484-2253
[email protected]
3156A
Turner, Mary, MSN, RN
484-2360
[email protected]
3165
White, Worawan, PhD, RN
484-2300
wwhite@ pensacolastate.edu
3159
Winkler-Rogers, Elizabeth, MSN, RN
484-2207
ewinkler@ pensacolastate.edu
3187
Young, Karen, MSN, RN
484-1070
kyoung@ pensacolastate.edu
3153
Health Science Learning Center:
Moore, Sandy, CDA, AA, AS
Supervisor
484-2208
[email protected]
3705
MISSION
The mission of the Department of Nursing is to:



Provide accessible nursing education to prepare safe, caring, and competent entry level
professional nurses who provide care to diverse populations within community, entering
healthcare arena as associate degree nurses, practical nurses, nursing assistants, and
surgical technologists;
Provide quality educational opportunities for current Registered Nurses seeking to further
their education through the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, peri-operative
nursing, and critical care nursing courses for advanced certification;
Meet the health care needs of the community.
NURSING PHILOSOPHY
.
The philosophy of the Department of Nursing is based upon the faculty’s collective beliefs about
person, health, the environment, nursing, learning-centered education, and nursing education. The
philosophy serves as the foundation for development of all program curricula, including program
outcomes, learning objectives, teaching and learning activities, student assessment, faculty
professional development, and selection of learning resources.
Health is viewed on a continuum of wellness and illness. Optimum wellness occurs when
individuals are functioning at the highest level of their abilities and varies with each individual.
Illness is an alteration in the individual’s optimum level of wellness and also varies with each
individual.
The environment is viewed as internal and external, global and local elements and conditions that
affect the well or ill individual. It encompasses the social, economic, political, legal and technical
context of the individual and the practice settings. It also includes significant others, the nurse,
groups, and communities with whom the individual interacts.
The nursing faculty believes that nursing is both an art and science; a profession guided by
scientific principles and the core values for the National League for Nursing (NLN) which include:
caring, diversity, excellence, integrity, ethics, holism, and patient-centeredness (2010).
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PHILOSOPHY OF THE RN to BSN PROGRAM
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is directed toward the professional who already
holds a Registered Nursing license to prepare him or her with additional skills in leadership, theory,
research, informatics, and management of complex systems to succeed and be promoted within
the nursing profession. The BSN graduate will be qualified for supervisory jobs, such as nurse
manager, and other leadership roles. The BSN graduate will also be qualified to pursue a master’s
degree that would prepare him or her for career advancement. The graduate of the BSN program is
committed to life-long learning and professional growth.
STUDENT SUCCESS
The faculty at Pensacola State College is committed to the success of every student throughout the
nursing program. To facilitate success, the department refers students to the Student Services
Department to access academic advising, or other resources as needed, and to assist each
student with successful progression through the program, including financial aid, scholarship
information, academic appeals, and many other services.
The Health Sciences Learning Center (HSLC), located on the first floor of Building 3700, consists
of several areas for small group activities as well as individual study carrels equipped with
computers and DVD players. Four (4) individual rooms equipped with a hospital bed, sink, and
videotaping equipment are available. The BSN student may reserve a room for videotaping his or
her physical assessment practicum or check out physical assessment equipment necessary to
complete the physical assessment practicum at home. The HSLC is also available on a walk-in
basis for study and skills practice. In addition to tutorial assistance and free workshops offered, the
HSLC also has a complete collection of BSN required textbooks on reserve for BSN students to
check out and use on campus.
The Mary Ekdahl Smart Center for Patient Simulation and Research has thirteen full-body high
fidelity patient simulators, including seven adults, one child, one infant, two newborns, and two
pregnant adults. Additionally, the Center has a high fidelity cardiopulmonary simulator.
The BSN Library Website is created by the Pensacola State College Library specifically for the
convenience of the BSN student. The website enables a BSN student to search for any relevant
books and journal articles without going through the PSC library main page. All information
provided on the library website is tailored for and relevant to the BSN students, such as the list of
recommended Nursing journals, as well as the links to databases used for journal article searches
(e.g., CINAHL, Medline, and Nursing Collection OVID). These databases offer full-text articles that
the BSN student may download and save to his or her computer for future reading and reference,
free of charge. In addition, the BSN library website also offers information regarding writing and
citing in APA style and format. To access the BSN library website, go to
http://researchguides.pensacolastate.edu/content.php?pid=219882
Canvas, the Learning Management System (LMS), is the system used by the Pensacola State
College eLearning Department for web-based online and hybrid courses, and companion web
pages for face-to-face courses. Canvas delivers powerful learning experiences with simple and
clean design that is reliable and easy to integrate multimedia from the internet to courses. The
student can access Canvas via computers or any mobile devices using Canvas applications.
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Assistance with Canvas is provided around the clock by Canvas Support Hotline and Chat. The
student may also receive assistance with eLearning through the IT Help Desk that is available by
calling 850-471-4534 from 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Monday through Thursday and from 7:30 AM to
4:00 PM on Friday. If a student needs help after these hours, he or she may send an email to
[email protected]. Generally, a response will be received on the next
business day.
CAMPUS SUPPORT SERVICES
Career & Technical Education Student Resources (CTE) (call 484-2163) – To be eligible for
CTE services, nursing students must meet a minimum of one of the following criteria: (1)
economically disadvantaged, (2) single parent, (3) nontraditional student, (4) disabled, (5)
displaced homemaker, or (6) limited English proficiency. Each applicant must attend a CTE
orientation session.
A counselor from the Student Resource Center for ADA Services is on the Warrington Campus
one day per week (call 484-1637 for an appointment). There are two full-time academic advisors in
Student Affairs and a full-time financial aid counselor available to students on the Warrington
Campus. Student Support Services available to all students on the Warrington Campus include
testing, academic advising, and reading, writing, math, and computer labs. Student Job Services
provides services related to meeting a student's employment needs.
Americans with Disabilities – It is the responsibility of any student with any documented disability
that falls under the Americans with Disability Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation to notify the
Student Resource Center for ADA Services to discuss any special needs or equipment necessary
to accomplish the requirements for all nursing courses. Upon completion of registration with the
Student Resource Center for ADA Services, specific arrangements can be discussed with the
instructors.
STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNANCE
Pensacola State College RN to BSN program encourages each student to participate in the
governance of the department; student feedback and participation is vital for the nursing program’s
success. One primary way a student can do this is by serving as a representative on the BSN
Faculty Committee. Please see the faculty advisor of the Student Nurses Association if you are
interested. In addition, each student is encouraged to participate in the Student Nurses Association
and Student Government Association to enhance governance in all aspects of the College and
nursing program.
STUDENT JOB DESCRIPTION
While PSC and the Department of Nursing are responsible to meet certain expectations of
students, that same courtesy is expected in return. Each PSC student is expected to review and
follow the student job description as noted on the College website at
http://www.pensacolastate.edu/SuccessfulStudent.asp.
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The RN to BSN student is also expected to:
1. Read and understand the RN to BSN student handbook.
2. Sign the Adherence Agreement located in the RN to BSN student handbook and return the
signed form to the Department of Nursing by the end of the first semester.
3. Follow the course syllabi and course expectations for all RN to BSN courses.
STUDENT FILES
The RN-BSN student must keep a copy of all records turned into the nursing office. This includes,
but is not limited to, plan of study, the Adherence Agreement, and other program-related
documents.
GENERAL POLICIES AND INFORMATION
Legal Limitations of Licensure/Criminal History Record Checks
Any students with an arrest record will be contacted to schedule an appointment with the Director
of Nursing. The student will be counseled on the rules and laws regarding attending clinical sites.
Each RN-BSN student is expected to contact the Director of Nursing if an arrest occurs while
attending Pensacola State College nursing programs.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Pursuant to Section 456.0635, Florida Statutes, effective July 1, 2010,
health care boards or the department shall refuse to issue a license, certificate or registration and
shall refuse to admit a candidate for examination if the applicant has been:
1. Convicted or plead guilty or nolo contendre to a felony violation of: chapters 409, 817, or
893, Florida Statutes; or 21 U.S.C. ss. 801-970 or 42 U.S.C. ss 1395-1396, unless the
sentence and any probation or pleas ended more than 15 years prior to the application.
2. Terminated for cause from Florida Medicaid Program (unless the applicant has been in
good standing for the most recent five years).
3. Terminated for cause by any other State Medicaid Program or the Medicare Program
(unless the termination was at least 20 years prior to the date of the application and the
applicant has been in good standing with the program for the most recent five years).
Each nursing program makes independent decisions about admissions into that specific program
and may require a criminal background screening as part of that process. Clinical facilities may limit
or prohibit student with a criminal history from participating in clinical experiences.
Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening
Each RN-BSN student is required to complete and receive satisfactory results of the urine drug
screening and background check by the first semester of the RN-BSN program. The satisfactory
results of the urine drug screening and criminal background check will be good through the
completion of the RN to BSN program.
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However, prior to starting practicum courses, the RN-BSN student may be required by a facility at
which he or she chooses to do the practicum to complete an additional urine drug screening and
background check prior to participating in practicum hours. The RN-BSN student will be
responsible for the cost of the additional urine drug screening and background check required by
the facility.
The RN-BSN student may be randomly tested for drugs at any time. A computer program or other
independent, bias free method of name selection may be used to ensure that students to be tested
are randomly selected. Additionally, the RN-BSN student is expected to follow the drug screening
policy of the facility. Should a student refuse to follow facility and/or departmental policy, the
student shall assume liability for his or her personal transportation from the clinical facility and a
critical incident will be documented. The RN-BSN student may not attend clinical while under the
influence of alcohol, narcotic, sedatives, or stimulant medications.
Urine drug screening tests for the following drugs: Alcohol, Amphetamines, Cannabinoids,
Phencyclidine, Opiates, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepine, and Synthetic Narcotics (i.e., Methadone
and Propoxyphene). Pensacola State College’s complete drug screening policy is available in the
Department of Nursing and in the Dean’s office.
The student who fails the drug screening or background check will be excused from the RN-BSN
program.
Progression Requirements
Progression through the RN-BSN program requires:
1. 2.0 cumulative GPA.
2. “C” or higher in courses in the curriculum.
3. Current, valid, and unencumbered RN license in practicing state.
4. Current CPR certification for the Health Care Provider; American Heart Association
Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers (CPR/AED).
5. Satisfactory urine drug screening and criminal background check.
The student who does not meet progression requirements must withdraw from the RN-BSN
program.
Student Progression
The RN-BSN student's successful completion of the RN-BSN level courses within the established
time frame specified by his or her chosen plan of study is paramount. The plan of study may be
individualized by the request of the RN-BSN student. The individualized plan of study must be
approved by either the RN-BSN Program Coordinator or Director of Nursing. If necessary, after the
plan of study has been approved, the student may make a request to the RN-BSN Program
Coordinator or Director of Nursing for change of his or her plan of study.
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Maximum Attempts for a Course
The RN-BSN student may attempt any courses required for the RN-BSN program with a maximum
of three (3) times. The fee assessment for the first two (2) attempts is the regular fee. A third
attempt will result in the assessment of the full cost of instruction, which is three (3) times the cost
of the in-state tuition rate. The student enrolling in a third attempt of any course will not be
permitted to withdraw from class. A final grade of “W,” “I,” “N,” or “NC” will not be permitted and a
letter grade will be assigned.
A request for enrollment in a course for a fourth attempt requires the approval of the Vice President
of Student Affairs or designee.
Withdrawal Policy
If a student withdraws from the program, it is necessary to:
1. Obtain and complete a Department Student Withdrawal form. Forms are available
in the Department of Nursing and in Student Affairs.
2. Complete the College Student Schedule Adjustment Notice and submit it to
Student Affairs.
3. Check with a counselor regarding the status of financial aid and eligibility for
refunds.
Leave of Absence
The RN-BSN student who has started taking BSN level courses and finds it necessary to interrupt
his or her studies may notify either the RN-BSN Program Coordinator or Director of Nursing and
receive approval for a leave of absence. During the leave of absence, the RN-BSN student is not
required to pay any registration- or college-related fees to maintain his or her status.
The RN-BSN student is required to inform either the RN to BSN Program Coordinator or Director of
Nursing of his or her return to the program. If the leave of absence is twelve (12) months or longer,
the student must submit a new college application and other documents including residency
information and a copy of the current RN license to the Admissions Office for an update upon his or
her return to the program. The reapplication process must be complete before the RN-BSN
student can re-enroll in classes. The RN-BSN student will remain under the same catalog year.
The RN-BSN student will also work with the RN-BSN Program Coordinator to update his or her
plan of study. The time spent on-leave is counted as part of the allowed time frame to completion
for the program
Maximum Time Frame for Program Completion
A maximum time frame for the RN-BSN student to complete all required pre-requisites and BSN
courses is five (5) academic years with no more than a total of 128 credits. The students who
reaches the maximum time allowed but has not completed the program will be considered
incomplete. If desired, the student may reapply for the RN-BSN program.
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Incomplete Grades
Please refer to the 2014-2015 Pensacola State College Catalog or the College webpage at
http://pensacolastate.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2014-2015/Catalog/Admissions-RegulationsFinancial-Aid-and-Graduation/Grades/Incomplete-Grades.
Academic Integrity
The student in the RN-BSN program at PSC is expected to comply with the Student Honor Pledge
delineated in the 2014-2015 College Catalog, or on the College webpage
(http://pensacolastate.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2014-2015/Catalog/Student-Handbook/StudentResponsibilities/Basic-Student-Responsibilities). The student must also comply with the American
Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics. The ANA’s Code of Ethics is available at this website:
http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/EthicsStandards/CodeofEthicsforNurses/Codeof-Ethics.pdf.
Issues with the RN License
The RN-BSN student is responsible for keeping his or her RN license current and active in order to
progress in the program. If, at any time while in the RN-BSN program, the student has an issue with
his or her RN license, he or she is required to contact the RN-BSN Program Coordinator or Director
of Nursing immediately. The RN-BSN student may be subject to enrollment restrictions, depending
on the circumstances. Failure to contact the RN-BSN Program Coordinator or Director of Nursing
may result in expulsion from the RN-BSN program.
Distance Learning Attendance
To succeed in the RN-BSN program, the RN-BSN student is required to log onto eLearning to
complete all the assigned course activities on a weekly basis; however, the minimal requirement for
online attendance may be different from course to course. Therefore, students should refer to
course syllabi for the detailed information regarding the distance learning policy.
Injury during Practicum Experiences
If the RN-BSN student is injured during practicum experiences (e.g., needle stick, back injury), he
or she must:
1.
Notify his or her preceptor and course instructor immediately.
2.
Complete an appropriate accident/incident report.
The student will be referred to the hospital’s Emergency Room to be examined by a physician. The
hospital will provide immediate care at the student's expense. The student may be financially
responsible for any injury occurring during clinical rotations, but an Accident/Incident Claim Form
with Hartford Insurance (carried by Pensacola State College) should be submitted.
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The RN-BSN student is not an employee of the healthcare agency or the College during his or her
practicum. Therefore, if injured during the practicum, the student is not entitled to and will not
receive worker’s compensation from either the College or the healthcare facility.
A student who incurs a needle stick or any other type of direct risk exposure with a patient may be
advised by the clinical agency to begin immediate treatment for HIV. For most effective results,
treatment must be started within two (2) hours of exposure.
A follow-up evaluation of major injuries, illnesses, and/or conditions may be required upon entry
and after any change in physical or mental status. It is the student’s responsibility to provide
updates to his or her health record. Changes in medical condition (pregnancy, communicable
disease, major illness, and injury) must be immediately reported to the instructor. After an injury,
the student must provide a physician’s written release to return to class and clinical duty. During
pregnancy and after childbirth, the student must provide documentation from a physician that
clears her to attend, or return to class and clinical courses.
Health Clinic
A health clinic, located on the Pensacola campus and under the supervision of a registered nurse,
is available to assist students, faculty, and staff in the event of an accident or illness. If the Health
Clinic nurse is needed at the scene of an accident or emergency illness, Pensacola State College
Police should first be contacted at ext. 2500. The Health Clinic is located in the Lou Ross
Health/Sports Center. Services are provided free of charge. Hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to
4:00 p.m. daily (Refer to the 2014-2015 Pensacola State College Catalog).
Insurance
Registration fees for core nursing courses include student professional liability (malpractice)
insurance and student accident insurance. This coverage applies while a student is enrolled in the
nursing program courses and is functioning as a student nurse. Upon graduation, the student is
responsible for his or her continuing insurance coverage.
The student accident insurance is a limited coverage. The student is covered during the policy
period while participating in the College course(s), labs, or clinical training sponsored by the
policyholder; on the premises designated and supervised by the policyholder; or while on the
premises used for classes, labs or clinical training as designated by these activities and under the
direct supervision of the policyholder.
Accident Medical Expense Benefit:
Maximum Benefit:
Deductible Amount:
Maximum Dental Limit:
Accidental Death Benefit: Principal Sum:
Accidental Dismemberment Benefit: Principal Sum:
$15,000.00
None
$1,000.00
$25,000.00
$25,000.00
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CPR Certification
The RN to BSN student must maintain current cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification
throughout the program. Certification must be American Heart Association Basic Life Support
(BLS) for Healthcare Providers (CPR/AED).
Physical Requirements
The RN-BSN student is expected to be able to perform the following physical requirements and
meet the criteria (100%) while in the RN to BSN program. If unable to perform the following
requirements, an explanation and/or additional information will be required. The student may ask
for reasonable accommodation. The student should also see the Coordinator of Student Support
Services or Director of Nursing to determine if the accommodations can be met.
Tactile
Visual
Hearing
Motor Skills
Mobility
Technical
Standards/
Physical
Abilities &
Skills
Standard
Examples
Physical abilities sufficient to
move independently from room to
room, walk in hallways, maneuver
in small places such as patient
rooms, medication rooms.
Walking independently with patients from
department to department, around the patient room,
down the corridor, from one patient room to another
to take care of all patients on a team and to assist
in the transport of all patients from bed to bed, bed
to chair. Walking, standing, sitting for long periods
of time, stooping, lifting patients weighing,
squatting, reaching, twisting, bending, pushing,
pulling, dragging, climbing.
Gross and fine motor skills to
practice safe and efficient patient
care. Sufficient manual dexterity
to manipulate equipment in the
patient care setting.
Manual dexterity to start a patient’s intravenous
line, set alarms on monitors, draw up and give
injections to patients without extraneous movement.
Auditory ability sufficient to
monitor and assess health needs.
Auscultation of breath sounds, heart sounds, blood
pressure, bowel sounds, hearing alarms, call bells
telephones in patient care, converse with patients,
family and staff from varying distances with varying
audible sounds.
Visual ability sufficient for
observation and assessment
necessary to provide safe patient
care.
Reading patient charts/flow sheets/monitors,
drawing up and administering medications,
assessing patient skin tones, reading
thermometers, assessing wound status, non-verbal
behaviors.
Tactile ability sufficient for
physical assessment and to
provide safe patient care.
Performing palpation, giving injections, starting IV’s,
sterile and non sterile dressing changes, urinary
catheterization, assess skin temperature and
texture, and assist with patient care activities
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Critical
Thinking
Interpersonal
Communication
Technical
Standards/
Physical
Abilities &
Skills
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Standard
Examples
Communication abilities sufficient
for interaction with others in
coherent and concise oral and
written form.
Following spontaneous verbal and/or written
instructions. Is able to effectively communicate in
English. Must be able to communicate the patient’s
response to therapy to other members of the health
care team, document patient responses to therapy
on health care forms utilizing various forms of
media, consult with health care team
members/workers in a professional manner.
Interpersonal skills sufficient for
interaction with patients, families
and groups from diverse
backgrounds (cultural, emotional,
intellectual) in a variety of health
care settings
Conversing effectively with patients, families, and
groups and in stressful patient care situations such
as emergencies.
Critical thinking sufficient for
clinical decision-making
Competent assessing a patient in a timely manner
and correctly interpreting assessment. Readily
responding with appropriate nursing/medical
interventions and treatment plans. Can work in
isolation independently for positive patient outcome.
Financial Aid Assistance
Various scholarships and loans are available through the Financial Aid Office and the Department
of Nursing. Information on these scholarship opportunities is posted on the Department of Nursing
Scholarship Board. Further information can be obtained from Financial Aid/Scholarship offices on
any Pensacola State College campus.
Communication Channels
Office Visits by Appointment
Each faculty member has office hours posted on his or her office door. The RN-BSN
student may make appointments to meet with faculty members during these times.
When a RN-BSN student feels he or she has a concern with an academic issue or action
of the Department of Nursing, the student has the opportunity to express the concern(s)
through the proper channels. Every effort should be made to resolve the matter at the level
of the instructor and the student. If the concern is not resolved at that level, the student
may schedule an appointment to discuss the issue with the RN-BSN Program Coordinator
and/or the Director of Nursing. Issues not resolved within the Department of Nursing may
then be discussed with the Dean of the Warrington Campus.
Pirate E-mail
Pensacola State College provides every student an email account through the PirateMail
system. PirateMail is the primary method of communication to Pensacola State College
credit students. By logging into PirateMail and utilizing the College’s other Information
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Technology (IT) Resources at all campuses and centers, each student agrees to abide by
the “Acceptable Use Policy” found on the Pensacola State College webpage
(http://www.pensacolastate.edu/acceptable-use-policy/). PirateMail will be used by the
instructors as well as the administrative offices of the College to pass important
information. It is the responsibility of the RN-BSN student to continuously monitor his or her
e-mail account.
Course E-mail
The RN-BSN students who is currently registered for BSN level courses on eLearning
should use the eLearning e-mail tool called Course E-mail to communicate with course
instructors and classmates for course-related matters. Course instructors also use Course
E-mail to communicate and pass important information to students. It is the student's
responsibility to continuously monitor his or her Course E-mail.
Evaluation of BSN Level Courses
A. Theory and Practicum
A minimum grade of “C” (75 or above) in theory and practicum is required to
successfully complete the courses.
A
B
C
D
F
90.00 – 100.00
82.00 – 89.99
75.00 – 81.99
66.00 – 74.99
65.99 and below
Passing
Passing
Passing
Failing
Failing
B. Rounding of Grades
To be consistent with College policy, the Department of Nursing does not round the
final course grades. The RN-BSN student must pass theory/practicum courses with a
75.00 or higher cumulative score.
C. Critical Incident
A critical incident is a potential error or one that would have occurred without preceptor
or instructor intervention. It is further defined as a behavior or action that, which by its
omission or commission, actually or potentially places the patient or another individual
in physical or psychological jeopardy or involves legal or ethical issues.
When performing skills, the critical element of safety must not be violated. Safety is
defined as freedom from injury or possibility of injury of any type. Safety includes:
i. Prevention of bacteriological injury through asepsis. Asepsis is of the
utmost importance from the standpoint of preventing and controlling the
spread of microorganisms;
ii. Prevention of mechanical, thermal, chemical, and electrical injuries; and,
iii. Maintenance of psychological safety which includes mental well-being and
patient comfort by preventing emotional upsets.
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It is the student's responsibility to understand the practicum expectations, nursing
student role and Code of Ethics. During practicum courses, the RN-BSN student must
adhere to the “professional nursing student role” as defined by the Florida Board of
Nursing Rules and Regulations.
A student who works outside the “professional nursing student role” or breaches the
American Nurses Association ANA Code of Ethics will be seen as practicing
unprofessionally. Unprofessional practice includes inappropriate student-instructor,
student-student, student-personnel or student-patient interactions which may reflect
negatively on Pensacola State College Nursing Program or Clinical Affiliates.
In the event that the student breaches the scope of practice, the Clinical Incident
Procedure will be followed. The Department of Nursing’s Policies, including the Clinical
Incident Procedure, are available in the Department of Nursing.
D. Videotaping of Practicum
One of the assignments for NUR 3065: Health Assessment and Physical appraisal
requires the student to videotape his or her skill performance on an individual who
volunteers to function as a client. The submitted video may be viewed by full-time
and/or adjunct instructors or peers.
Orientation for Clinical Laboratory Experiences
The RN-BSN student is expected to complete orientation, prior to the first clinical day, as required
by agencies (hospital, daycare, clinic, nursing home, outpatient surgical center, etc). All
requirements related to orientation (HIPPA, orientation posttest, confidentiality form, student health
form, TB-PPD, CPR, etc.) must be completed and filed in the nursing office by the set deadline
assigned by the instructor, which will be prior to the first clinical day.
Professional Appearance and Uniform Guidelines for Practicum Courses
The RN-BSN student must appear neat and professional at all times when visiting clinical sites,
attending practicum-related meetings, and completing practicum hours with the nurse mentor. The
students must adhere to the following:
Professional Appearance:
1. The student will be neat, clean and well-groomed by performing impeccable personal
hygiene;
2. Hair must be off the collar and away from the face the entire time during practicum
hours;
3. Men should be clean-shaven. Established beards and mustaches are to be always
neatly trimmed. Side burns, if any, will be no longer than earlobe length.
4. Fingernails will be clean and short. No nail polish, artificial nails or nail tips can be
worn;
5. Perfume, scented hair products, or any strong odor is not permitted (heavy makeup will
not be worn);
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6. No body piercing, other than earlobes, may be visible. Only one small earring may be
worn in each earlobe;
7. Jewelry, including bracelets and necklaces, will not be worn. The ONLY exceptions
are:
o
Wrist watch with a second hand;
o
A plain wedding band;
o
One pair of stud-type earrings. They must be round, gold or silver, white or
clear, and worn only in the earlobes; and,
8. The student may not smoke, either on campus or at a clinical site, while in the lab coat
with the Pensacola State College photo identification badge on.
Uniform Guidelines:
During practicum activities at a clinical site, the student must:
1. Observe professional dress attire;
2. Wear a long, white, clean, and ironed lab coat; and,
3. Wear an official Pensacola State College photo identification badge. The badge may
be obtained at the Pensacola State Police office on any campus.
In addition, the student:
o
Will be responsible for medical equipment needed during practicum time
as appropriate; and,
o
May not use any electronic devices including recording devices, cameras,
laptop computers, or cell phones during practicum activities to ensure strict
protection of patient privacy.
Confidentiality
Under any circumstances, the RN-BSN student will not disclose any patient, health care facility, or
staff information outside of the clinical or conference area. If, at any time, an RN to BSN student
has a concern regarding an occurrence during his or her practicum experiences, the student is to
discuss the concern with the preceptor, nursing faculty, Program Coordinator, Assistant Director, or
the Director of Nursing. Failure to comply with this confidentiality policy will result in dismissal from
the program and possible legal proceedings. Making copies of patient records is not allowed and
may be considered a critical incident.
Behavior during Practicum Experiences
The RN-BSN student is expected to abide by all healthcare agency policies as well as Pensacola
State College policies. The student is not permitted to leave the practicum premises without the
expressed consent of his or her preceptors or Pensacola State College faculty. Failure to adhere to
healthcare agency and Pensacola State College policies may result in course failure.
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Student Grievance Procedure
The purpose of the grievance procedure is to provide, at the lowest possible level, a means to
mediate a fair and equitable solution to any complaint other than grade disputes (including Title IX
and Section 504) that a student may have with a faculty member. If the grievance involves any
alleged discrimination or harassment, the student may consult with the Director of Human
Resources and E.A.E.O. See the 2014-2015 College Catalog for the Student Grievance Procedure
or on the College webpage at http://pensacolastate.smartcatalogiq.com/en/20142015/Catalog/Student-Handbook/Student-Rights/Student-Academic-Grievance-Procedure.
The procedure for instituting an official student grade grievance is described in the 2014-2015
College Catalog or on the College webpage at http://pensacolastate.smartcatalogiq.com/en/20142015/Catalog/Student-Handbook/Student-Rights/Student-Grade-Grievance-Procedure.
If a student has a complaint about the nursing program, the concern should be written, signed, and
submitted to the Director of Nursing.
Graduation Procedures
The RN-BSN student is responsible for the Graduation Application Form on-line through Spyglass.
The student who applies for graduation is sent information on commencement ceremony plans.
The diploma will be mailed approximately four weeks after the degree is awarded (SPYGLASS –
Transcripts). December graduates diplomas will be mailed in the early part of February, May
graduates diplomas will be mailed in the early part of June, and August graduates diplomas will be
mailed in the early part of September.
The application for graduation initiates a review of each student’s academic history to determine
the eligibility of each student for graduation. If a discrepancy is found, the student is notified
promptly. The student must contact a counselor to correct the discrepancy between the student’s
record and graduation requirements. All curriculum requirements and financial obligations to the
College must be met prior to graduation.
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Department of Nursing Copy
ADHERENCE AGREEMENT
Semester___________ Year_______
1.
I understand that I am responsible for adhering to the policies and procedures
contained in the RN to BSN Student Handbook and in the College Catalog. I
understand that this signed statement will become part of my student file.
2.
I understand that successful completion of the RN to BSN curriculum will result in
an award of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
3.
By signing this document, I verify that I have received a copy of the Pensacola
State College Department of Nursing RN to BSN Student Handbook.
Student ID Number
Student Printed Name
Date
Student Signature
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Student Copy
ADHERENCE AGREEMENT
Semester_____________ Year_______
1.
I understand that I am responsible for adhering to the policies and procedures
contained in the RN to BSN Nursing Student Handbook and in the College
Catalog. I understand that this signed statement will become part of my student
file.
2.
I understand that successful completion of the RN to BSN curriculum will result in
an award of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
3.
By signing this document, I verify that I have received a copy of the Pensacola
State College Department of Nursing RN to BSN Student Handbook.
Student ID Number
Student Printed Name
Date
Student Signature